A colonoscopy is among the most widely-used screening tests for colorectal cancer. It is a safe procedure that gives more information about your colon and rectum health. A colonoscopy Katy can also help detect other conditions such as polyps and tumors. Colorectal cancer symptoms may not appear until the disease is at an advanced stage, but a colonoscopy can help detect the condition early.
There are many different types of colonoscopies. The type your doctor chooses depends on your condition and what kind of testing you need. Some colonoscopies test for conditions such as ulcers, polyps, or blood in the stool, and some test for cancerous tissue or growth. The most common types include the following:
Rigid sigmoidoscopy
A rigid sigmoidoscopy uses a scope to look at the entire length of the large intestine and may be done in conjunction with a flexible procedure if needed. Physicians can perform rigid sigmoidoscopy under local or general anesthesia, depending on your comfort level and medical history.
Flexible sigmoidoscopy
A flexible sigmoidoscopy is a noninvasive test that allows your doctor to see the entire length of your large intestine (colon). This procedure lasts about 15 minutes and does not require sedation or anesthesia. It is performed using an endoscope — a tube with a tiny camera at one end. A gentle sweep through your entire colon will allow your doctor to check for polyps or other abnormalities. Your doctor can also remove any polyps he finds during this exam if necessary.
Routine colonoscopy
A routine colonoscopy looks for signs of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), such as ulcerative colitis, which can cause symptoms such as diarrhea, cramping, and abdominal pain that you have been experiencing for years. A routine colonoscopy may also be necessary if there are signs that someone has had an inflamed appendix or diverticulum, which may lead to cancer.
Randomized trial
This colonoscopy involves taking stool samples from many people with no symptoms and testing them for various diseases such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.
Nomogram
This test uses x-rays to create a map of your intestines and can be used to find out if you have polyps or other abnormalities in your colon. Specialists take x-rays with special equipment that prevents radiation from entering the body.
Hydrocolloid banding test (HBT)
This test uses an x-ray machine and unique banding materials that can be placed around your bowel for up to two weeks so that the tissue can heal before removal by surgery. The banding material is then removed over time after it has healed.
Colonoscope biopsy
A colonoscopy biopsy is similar to an endoscopic biopsy but uses a flexible tube instead of a telescope or camera connected directly to your body cavity (endoscope).
Your doctor may recommend a colonoscopy if you have symptoms such as diarrhea or constipation or if your family has a history of colon cancer. The colonoscopy can also find polyps, which are small growths in the colon. If you have symptoms that suggest you may have a problem with your colon, you should contact your doctor. They will discuss your risk factors and medical history and how often you should get screened. Contact Imperial Digestive Health Specialists PLLC and request an appointment with a doctor to learn more about colonoscopy.
